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Holding conflicting views about an organisation's management and "purpose" was never going to allow for smooth sailing in an employment relationship, the Federal Circuit Court has noted in adverse action proceedings.

It was for this reason that the employer dismissed its employee, and not because he had exercised workplace rights, Judge Salvatore Vasta found.

The 3E Zero Net Group business development manager had lodged a general protections dismissal claim, arguing he was sacked in September 2023 for taking sick leave, making a workers' compensation claim, and complaining about his supervisor's bullying behaviour.

He told the Court he found it difficult to work with the supervisor, who he alleged micromanaged him, gave him confusing or conflicting directions, and set "impossible" and unnecessary deadlines.

The supervisor had her own concerns, the Court heard, including about: the employee's approach to work; "capability gaps" in his skillset; and the employer not getting his full attention because he also co-owned an executive training business...